Under lights at Katandra, Tocumwal faced a tough challenge against one of the competition’s benchmark sides but showed true grit and character in a performance that belied the final scoreline.
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The evening also marked an important moment for the club, with three players pulling on the senior jumper for the first time, Noah Sneddon, Tex Flack and Reid Crowe.
All three embraced the occasion and showed encouraging signs for the future of the Bloods.
Despite missing some key personnel through illness, the Bloods were determined to honour the spirit of the Sandy Family Anzac Day Medal by playing with courage, commitment, teamwork and mateship.
Katandra burst out of the blocks early, piling on five unanswered goals in the opening term to establish a commanding lead.
While the scoreboard pressure mounted, Tocumwal refused to take a backward step.
The contest itself was far more even than the margin suggested, with the Bloods continuing to compete strongly around the contest and apply pressure across the ground.
To their credit, Tocumwal continued to fight out the game, showing resilience and unity against a well-drilled opposition that capitalised on its opportunities.
Charles Locke led from the front in a standout performance, earning the Sandy Family Anzac Day Medal - presented by Greg Watmore - for his courageous and committed effort across four quarters.
He was well supported by an impressive Reid Crowe in his debut, along with strong contributions from Harrison Jenner, Clay Howe, Brayden Hall and fellow first-gamer Noah Sneddon.
Final score: Tocumwal 4.8 (32) def by Katandra 17.11 (113).
Best: Charlie Locke, Reid Crowe, Harry Jenner, Clay Howe, Brayden Hall, Noah Sneddon.
Goals: Liam Sutton 2, Brayden Hall, Charlie Locke.
Awards: Reid Crowe, Clay Howe, Charlie Locke.
Reserves
It was a hard day at the park against a well drilled and fit Katandra side.
Although the scoreboard didn’t reflect the team’s effort, the Bloods never gave up.
We had some really good passages of play and finding we are getting better each week.
Final score: Tocumwal 1.2 (8) def by Katandra 24.14 (158).
Best: Ryan McGrath, Trent Wade, Caleb Johnson, Jordy Findlay, Cody Palmer.
Goals: Trent Wade.
Awards: Caleb Johnson, Trent Wade.
Thirds
The boys worked hard all day, stood up when the pressure came on, and were rewarded for their effort.
A special mention to Phoenix Valente, who was a standout in the backline all day, intercepting strongly and providing plenty of drive from defence.
Strong teamwork, disciplined footy, and a never-give-up attitude proved the difference.
A great result and plenty to build on moving forward.
Final score: Tocumwal 8.9 (57) def Katandra 7.8 (50).
Best: Phoenix Valente, Sean Lykissas, Ryder Loomes, Cale Murphy, Heath Mansell, Chace Brunskill.
Goals: Sam Watson 4, Archie Chellew 2, Chace Brunskill, Heath Mansell
Awards: Phoenix Valente, Sean Lykissas, Ryder Loomes, Heath Mansell, Cale Murphy.
Fourths
It’s three wins on the trot for our fourths, with a dominant performance over Katandra.
Our rucks were outstanding all day, giving the midfielders first use and setting up plenty of forward entries.
With eight different goal kickers, it was a great team effort and also gave the boys the opportunity to try a few different positions.
A strong, even performance across the ground.
Final score: Tocumwal 22.16 (148) def Katandra to 1.1 (7).
Best: Ollie East, Sam Borg, Brax Brunskill, Charlie Wilson, Angus Kruzinga, Archie Matters.
Goals: Archie Matters 6, Sam Borg 5, Taylor Findlay 3, Lucas Grieves 2, Charlie Wilson 2, Ollie East, Jack Petersen, Parker Boaden.
Awards: Ollie East, Sam Borg, Brax Brunskill, Charlie Wilson, Austin Watt.